Porta Torre

The medieval entrance to the city of Como

An extraordinary example of Romanesque military architecture, Porta Torre is what remains, or rather, what is most visible of the ancient defensive walls that surrounded the city of Como. As its name suggests, it is both a gateway to the town and an elevated building towering above the surrounding buildings, a landmark for the people of Como in times past.

To those arriving from outside, Porta Torre presents an impenetrable façade, with a massive and austere, almost intimidating appearance. Seen from inside the city walls, however, it changes shape: more airy and welcoming, with four rows of arcades and a round-arched window that once allowed a glimpse of the bell used to warn citizens in case of danger.

At 40 metres high, Porta Torre has withstood the passage of time since 1192, when it was built to protect Como’s threshold from invaders. Set off from here for your visit to the Larian city: you will not be disappointed.